Head protector for infants, small children, senior citizens, adults or physically disabled individuals

ABSTRACT

The present invention is directed to a protective hat suitable for every day wear by infants, children, senior citizens or physically disabled individuals. Such hat protects at least the sides, top or rear of the wearer&#39;s head from injuries due to falls or bumps against hard objects while conducting routine, daily activities. Generally, the head protector of the present invention may comprise: (1) a cap member: and (2) one or more flexible, resilient shock absorbent pads. The cap member may be constructed so as to fully enclose and/or encapsulate the one or more pads.

I. CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation-in-part of PCT/US02/25256, filed Nov.7, 2002, which claims priority from U.S. application Ser. No. 09/924,425filed Aug. 7, 2001, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,493,881. This application isalso co-pending with U.S. Ser. Appl. No. ______ Entitled “ProtectivePadding,” filed Jul. 1, 2003. Each of the above-mentioned relatedapplications are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

II. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Infants, small children, physically disabled adults and seniors areespecially susceptible to banging their heads on hard surfaces due tofalls or slips while conducting daily, routine activities. The typicalinfant or small child will sustain multiple falls on hard surfacesbefore it can learn to sit, crawl or walk. For example, infants oftencrawl beneath chairs and tables. While underneath these items, the childwill bang her head when attempting to stand up or lift her head. Whilethe resulting injuries are not life threatening, they cause swelling andbruising about the head. Moreover, the bang or bump to the head is quitetraumatic, causing the child to cry or become agitated.

Small children capable of walking or running are particularly vulnerableto falls against table corners, walls and other hard, pointed surfaces.In some instances, serious head injuries can result when a child bangshis or her head against any of these items. Indeed, head trauma is acommon accident in childhood. It has been reported that such accidentsaccount for 600,000 emergency room visits per year in the U.S. Mostcases of pediatric head trauma do not require intervention or result innegative sequelae. However, in developed countries, brain injury remainsone of the most common causes of death and disability in childhood.Further, children or adults who are disabled, developmentally delayed orwho suffer from neuro motor or muscular/skeletal impairments often havedifficulty standing and/or walking independently, or accomplishingeveryday activities. Such individuals are also susceptible to headinjuries due to falls or slips.

Much of the protective headgear currently available for infants,children and adults is neither fashionable, comfortable nor effective.Many are usually bulky and restrictive. Also, most of the currentprotective headgear is not enjoyable to wear, nor is it designed for usein the house during daily activities such as walking, playing, crawling,or learning to walk, nor are they designed for daily, non-sportactivities such as playing in a playground. Much of the protectiveheadgear is designed for outdoor athletic or sport activities, such assoccer, baseball and other contact sports, and is not suitable foreveryday wear.

The present invention overcomes the problems of currently availableprotective headgear by providing a head protector that is attractive,comfortable and effectively provides an infant, child or adult headprotection for extended periods of time in a fun, enjoyable manner. Thepresent invention may be worn daily by an individual during ordinaryindoor or outdoor activities, including but not limited to, crawling,walking, playing (e.g., playing in a playground), non sport activities,and other activities. The present invention is particularly suitable inany non-sport environment.

The present invention may also be suitable for senior citizens. Manyseniors fear falling while conducting daily, routine activities. Theprotective hat of the present invention may be utilized by seniors toreduce the risk of head injury during a fall and to alleviate the fearof falling while they conduct daily activities.

The present invention may also be adapted to protect an individual fromself mutilation injuries to the head. For example, it is known that someautistic children are prone to self mutilation activities such as headbanging. Some children with Attention Deficit Disorder are more prone toaccidents and injuries due to impulsivity and thus require moreprotection from falls and bangs against hard objects.

III. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a headprotector for infants and small children and adults.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a headprotector which is lightweight and comfortable to wear and will notinterfere with the wearer's activities.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a headprotector that is suitable to wear while performing everyday activitiesin home or work environment.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a headprotector that is enjoyable to wear by an infant or small child or adultduring their daily activities, including but not limited to daily indooror outdoor activities.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a headprotector that is suitable to wear during non sport, everydayactivities.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a headprotector that is configured to provide protection to at least thesides, top or rear of the wearer's head.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a headprotector that is configured to provide protection in work environmentswhere there is a risk of minor head injury due to bangs against objectssuch as, for example, low hanging pipes or machinery or fall due toslippery or obstructed walkways.

Other objects and advantages of the invention will become apparent uponreading the following detailed description and upon reference to thefollowing drawings.

IV. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a further understanding of the nature and objects of the presentinvention, reference should be made to the following detailednon-limiting description, taken in conjunction with the accompanyingdrawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of an alternative embodiment of thehead protector of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a side perspective view of another alternative embodiment ofthe head protector of the present invention.

FIG. 3 a and FIG. 3 b represent a side perspective view of theembodiments of FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, respectively, illustrating a possibleassembly of the fluid-containing pads utilized in the construction ofthe present invention, and an alternative head strap.

FIG. 4 is a cross sectional view of a non-limiting embodiment offluid-containing pad utilized in the construction of the presentinvention.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a cap member utilized in theconstruction of the present invention.

FIG. 6 a is a side perspective view of a padded sandwich utilized in theconstruction of the present invention.

FIG. 6 b is a cross-sectional view of a padded sandwich utilized in theconstruction of the present invention.

FIG. 6 c is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary protective padassembly of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In one alternative embodiment, the present invention is directed to ahead protector suitable to be worn by an infant or small child or adultduring indoor and outdoor activities, including for example, crawling,walking, or playing, and other activities. With reference to theaccompanying figures, head protector (1) may comprise a cap member (2).The cap member (2) may be shaped so that it encircles at least theentire upper portion of a wearer's head, or a substantial portionthereof, when worm. The cap member (2), when worn, may overlie andprotect at least the sides, the top or the rear portion of the wearer'shead. The cap member may further comprise one or more pads to protectone or more portion's of the wearer's head. It should be understood thatthe pads may be used alone or in conjunction with a cap member.

A. Padded Materials

In the present invention, the one or more pads may comprise a variety ofmaterials, as discussed herein. In one alternative embodiment of thepresent invention, the one or more pads can be inflated or filled withvarious mediums, so long as the medium is compatible with the materialused in making the pad. Any medium can be used to fill the pad. Forexample, such medium may include a gas or liquid or a semi-solid or gel.In one alternative embodiment, material for filling the pad may be agel, e.g., a silicone gel. The pad can alternatively be filled withsilica aerogel or air, a mixture of gases, or a single gas, e.g., air ornitrogen. Other gels may include ultra light, shock-absorbing gel withlow deflection. Preferably, nonflammable and non-toxic mediums should beused. Alternatively, a liquid can be used to fill the pad, e.g., water,saline, or other non-aqueous liquid compatible with the pad material.The liquid can be of a viscosity ranging from that approximating waterto an aerosol, semi-solid, or other gel-like material. In addition, asolid, e.g., foam rubber or other resilient material, can be used solong as the desired cushioning effect is produced.

In one alternative embodiment, the pad of the present invention may befilled with an aerogel (e.g. silica aerogel). The aerogel may have oneor more of the following characteristics in Table 1. Generally, aerogelis not like conventional foams, but is a special porous material withextreme microporosity on a micron scale. It is composed of individualfeatures only a few nanometers in size, in most cases. These may belinked in a highly porous dendritic-like structure. TABLE I PhysicalProperties of Aerogels (e.g. Silica Aerogels) Property Value CommentsApparent Density 0.003-0.35 Most common density is g/cm³ ˜0.1 g/cm³Internal Surface 600-1000 m²/g As determined by nitrogen Areaadsorption/desorption % Solids 0.13-15% Typically 5% (95% free space)Mean Pore Diameter ˜20 nm As determined by nitrogenadsorption/desorption (varies with density) Primary Particle 2-5 nmDetermined by electron Diameter microscopy Index of Refraction 1.0-1.05Very low for a solid material Thermal Tolerance To 500 C. Shrinkagebegins slowly at 500 C., increases with inc. temperature. Melting pointis >1200 C. Coefficient of 2.0-4.0 × 10⁻6 Determined using ultrasonicThermal Expansion methods Poisson's Ratio 0.2 Independent of density.Similar to dense silica. Young's Modulus 10⁶-10⁷ N/m² Very small (<10⁴x)compared to dense silica Tensile Strength 16 kPa For density = 01 g/cm³Fracture Toughness ˜0.8 kPa * m^(1/2) For density = 0.1 g/cm³.Determined by 3-point bending. Dielectric Constant ˜1.1 For density =0.1 g/cm³. Very low for a solid material. Sound Velocity 100 m/sec Fordensity = 0.7 g/cm³. One of Through the the lowest velocities for aMedium solid material.

Other suitable padding for the present invention includes foam. Suchfoam may comprise a stable, chemically inert, impact resistant material.The foam may also comprise a closed-cell foam or opened-cell foam. Itmay be a cross-linked polymer such as high density or low densitypolyethylenene foam (e.g. ForeBloc®). Other foams may include thosecapable of withstanding repeated impact, and having a density betweenabout 2.0 and 8.0 lbs./cu. ft. Another suitable foam includes ZorbiumFoam® or other “hard foam” that is capable of absorbing impact throughenergy dissipation. In one alternative embodiment, the foam layer mayhave a thickness of about ⅛ to about 4 inches, or about ¼ to about ⅜inches. In another alternative embodiment, the protective hat of thepresent invention may comprise foam (alone) or in combination with anyother padding material described herein. For example, foam padding andgel padding may be interspersed uniformly or non-uniformly in theprotective hat.

In the present invention, the foam may be molded, die-cut or cut withany other suitable technique. They may vary in thickness from about ½inch to a full inch. The foam may vary in density from 1.0 pound percubic foot to 9.0 pounds per cubic foot. In one embodiment, closed-cellfoam from about pound per cubic inch in density, 3/16″ thick, up to 9pounds per cubic foot, also 3/16 inches thick. In one preferredembodiment, the more-dense foam may be placed in the area of likelyimpact, and the less dense foam away from that area.

Suitable padding for the present invention is also disclosed in U.S.Pat. No. 6,453,477, which is incorporated herein by reference in itsentirety. In this patent, for example, the pads may include outercasingsof porous, breathable, inelastic material overfilled with resilient,discrete beads of elastic material. These may be used as protectivepadding to absorb the force of an impact and to protect the user frominjury while allowing liquids and air to freely pass through the pad.The pads may also have a plurality of discrete, substantially solidbeads of substantially inelastic and waterproof, closed-cell foamwherein some outer portions of adjacent beads abut one another and otherouter portions of said adjacent beads are spaced from each other tocreate interstitial spaces. At least some of the adjacent beads may befused together at the abutting, outer portions thereof. Other suitablepads for use in the present invention are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.20030077407 and U.S. Provisional Application No. ______, Entitled“Protective Padding” filed Jul. 1, 2003 are incorporated herein byreference in their entirety.

Other suitable padding may include fluid-containing pads. In onealternative embodiment, the cap member (2) may comprise one or morefluid-containing pads (7). The fluid-containing pads (7) are flexible,resilient and shock absorbent. The thickness of such pads may range from0.20 inches to 6.0 inches. However, it should be understood that thethickness of the pads may vary in accordance with the desiredyeildability or stretchability of the pad.

Each fluid-containing pad (7) contains a fluid (3) in the nature of aliquid, thus enabling the pad to flex and become fitted to the contoursof the wearer's head. In one alternative embodiment, one or more padsmay be filled with air, instead of fluid. In a preferred embodiment, thefluid-containing pad (7) is at least substantially filled to capacitywith the fluid. In some instances, the fluid-containing pads may be lessthan substantially filled to capacity. This allows a certain degree ofcompressibility of the entire volume of the pad upon impact. But even inthe cases where the pads are entirely filled with liquid or air, therewould be a certain amount of yieldability of the pads because of theelasticity of its outer skin, (15).

The fluid (3) inside the pads (7) may be any fluid, such as water or anyother non-toxic material. Such fluid (3) may also include any gelatinousfluid or any other viscous liquid that is of sufficient density orviscosity to provide protective benefits to the wearer's head uponimpact due to falls or bumps against hard objects. Such fluids mayinclude, but are not limited to, any silastic gelatin material or anyother material containing polymeric silicones. The fluid (3) inside thefluid-containing pads (7) may also comprise a mixture of water andglycerin in about equal proportions or in a range between 30% and 70%glycerin and the remainder water, or other liquids such as syrups orsimilar viscous materials, grease or gels.

In the present invention, the one or more pads may comprise any shape,including but not limited to, squares, triangles, or rectangles. Thepads may also be spherical, cylindrical, conic, or disc-like, amongother shapes and sizes. In one alternative embodiment, the pads may beone or more difference shapes or sizes. Further, the one or more pads ofthe present invention may be disposed in cloth fabric. Such fabric maybe of any pattern, print, or color. It may be of cotton, nylon, Dacron,silk, or any other similar material. The cloth may be hemmed on at leastone edge, or up to four edges. Light cotton is an example of a preferredfabric. The pads may be cut in a variety of shapes appropriate to fitthe top, sides, or forehead of the person wearing the protective hat.

B. Composite Protective Pad

In another alternative embodiment, the one or more pads may comprise apadded composite (e.g., padded sandwich). The padded composite may beflexible and shock absorbent. It may also comprise an outer portion andan inner portion. The outer portion and inner portion comprising apadded material. In one alternative embodiment, the padded material ofthe outer portion is different from that of the inner portion. Suchmaterial may include any material capable of providing protectivebenefits alone or in combination with other materials, including, butnot limited to, foam, rubber, soft plastic, fabric, or any of the padsdescribed herein.

In one alternative embodiment, the padded composite may comprise a gellayer (e.g. fluid containing pad) positioned between another material,or vice versa. Traditional gels may have weight issues that are notdesirable in headgear. The sandwiching of gel material between foam (orvice versa) can reduce the weight of the padding, while providingsufficient protection against bumps and bangs. A gel-foam compositereplaces some of the foam material otherwise required for sufficientpadding. Also, there are aspects of foam padding preferable over gelpadding in terms of shock attenuation. There are aspects to gel padding(e.g., fluid-containing pad) preferable over foam in terms of shockdistribution during impact as well. By combining foam padding and gelpadding, the benefits of both components may be obtained. A non-limitingexample of a gel-foam sandwich is illustrated in FIGS. 6 a-6 b. Here,the gel layer (19) is positioned between foam layers (20) and (21). Thegel-foam composite may also comprise a foam layer positioned between gellayers. In another alternative embodiment, the gel layer may bepositioned between a rubber or rubber-like layer, or vice versa.

The gel layer may comprise any suitable gelatinous or viscous fluiddescribed herein or any other liquid that is of sufficient density orviscosity to provide protective benefits to the wearer's head uponimpact due to falls or bumps against hard objects. Such fluids mayinclude, but are not limited to, any silastic gelatin material or anyother material containing polymeric silicones. Suitable gel compositescan be made by methods known to those skilled in the art.

C. Outer Skin

In the present invention, the one or more pads may comprise an outerskin. The outer skin (15) of the one or more pads may be made of aresilient material of suitable durability such that it holds the paddingand will not rupture upon light to moderate impact due to the wearerbanging or bumping his head on a hard object. In one alternativeembodiment, the outer skin (15) may comprise a resilient materialincluding but not limited to mylar, vinyl plastic polyurethane, a blendof vinyl-polyurethane or the like. The outer skin (15) may also bewaterproof so that it will not spoil upon multiple washings of thepresent invention either by hand or in a washing machine.

D. Position of Pads

In one alternative embodiment of the present invention, multiple padsmay be positioned in a regular and spaced assembly, wherein the pads aregenerally equidistant from each other. (E.g., FIGS. 3A and 3B). Theassembly of the pads may also comprise multiple pads interconnected andpositioned in irregular intervals. In another embodiment of the presentinvention, multiple pads may be positioned to form meshes of varyingsizes and shapes therebetween. If desired, one single pad may beutilized in the construction of the present invention provided that itadequately protects the wearer's head.

In another alternative embodiment, some pads may be interconnected, asopposed to being positioned separately from other pads utilized in theconstruction of the present invention. For example, the head protectorof the present invention may comprise multiple pads interconnected toeach other or it may comprise a combination of non-interconnected padsand interconnected pads. In another alternative embodiment, the pads aresubstantially uniformly distributed along the inner surface (16) of thecap member (2).

In another alternative embodiment of the present invention, the one ormore pads are positioned such that they cover one or more portions ofthe entire inner surface (16) of the cap member (2) or at least asubstantial portion thereof. It should be understood, however, that thepresent invention is not limited to any specific number or sizes of padsor assemblies thereof. Rather, any number, size or assembly may beutilized in the construction of the present invention, so long as thepads adequately protect the wearer's head from injuries due to falls orbumps against hard objects, for example.

E. Outer Surface of Cap Member

The cap member (2) may further comprise an outer surface (8) of pliablematerial. Examples of suitable material for the outer surface (8) of capmember (2) include, but are not limited to cotton, linens, knits, wovenand non-woven fabrics, or any combination thereof. Other suitablefabrics may include an absorbent, towel-like fabric that issubstantially stretch resistant, such as terry. Such terrys may includebut are not limited to single and double faced terry, Turkish terry,French terry, boucle, velour or baby terry, or any combination thereof.The pliable material of the outer surface may also comprise aninsulating fabric, including, but not limited to wool, microfiber,fleece, ultra suede, felted fabrics, padded fabrics, thinsulate, or anycombination thereof. Other suitable fabrics may also include waterrepellant fabrics, such as, for example, Gortex™, nylon, plastic,rubber, Teflon™, or any combination thereof. Fabrics treated with awater repellent coating may also be suitable. Additional suitablefabrics may include silk, rayon, mesh, leather, velvet, cashmere, camelhair or any combination thereof.

The cap member (2) may be structured so that it fully encloses and/orencapsulates the one or more pads, thereby concealing the pads fromview. This gives the head protector an appearance of a fashionable hatworn by either an infant, child or adult. In one alternative embodiment,the pads may be enclosed or encased between the outer surface (8) andinner surface (16) of cap member (2). This can be achieved, for example,by engaging the outer surface (8) and inner surface (16) to form a spacetherebetween in which the pads can be positioned. In this instance, forexample, the edges of the outer surface (8) and inner surface (16) maybe sewn together to from a pocket in which the pads can be placed.Alternatively, the pads may not be encased between the outer surface (8)and inner surface (16) of cap member (2). Instead, the pads may bepositioned underneath the outer surface (8) of the cap member (2) sothat the pads contact the wearer's head directly, or the pads may becovered by another material positioned beneath outer surface (8) and/oron top of inner surface (16).

In another alternative embodiment, the present invention may comprise anassembly of pads whereby the assembly itself gives a fashionable andpleasant appearance when worn thus eliminating the need to incorporatecap member (2) in the construction of the present invention. An exampleof such an embodiment would include an assembly of pads resembling alace pattern.

F. Chin Strap

In another alternative embodiment of the present invention, the capmember (2) has a strap (10) for securing the head protector (1) on thewearer's head. The strap (10) comprises a first end (11) and a secondend (12), shot shown. The first end (11) is affixed to the first side(13) of the cap member (2). The second end (12), not shown, is affixedto the other side (14), not shown, of cap member (2). The strap (10) maycomprise an elastic or non-elastic material, including but not limitedto leather, canvas, cotton or lycra.

Alternatively, strap (10) may be affixed to the lower area of hat (1).The strap (10) may be affixed to head protector (1) by using VELCRO™type material, buttons, or any suitable means for removable affixing thechin strap (10) thereof. Chin strap (10) may also permit adjustment ofthe size of the band to accommodate different sized head.

The chin strap (10) may also have a closing member (18), including butnot limited to snaps or a velcro closing member. The closing member maycomprise two strips of material attached to the end portions of the chinstrap at the rear of hat (1). The sizing straps may connect the twostrips at a desired setting of the wearer by sticking together andmaintaining the length of each strap set by the wearer.

G. Ear Flap

In another alternative embodiment of the present invention, a protectiveear flap (17) is removable and/or adjustably connected to each side ofprotective hat (e.g., cap member (2)). Each protective ear flap maycomprise one or more pads covered by a pliable material, such as thosedescribed herein. Ear flap (17) will be large enough to sufficientlycover and/or protect the wearer's ears from elements of the weather orinjury. Flap sizes with respect to width or diameter may vary dependingupon whether or not they contain fluid-containing pads, although theirshape are preferably spherical or circular. Protective ear flap (17) maybe attached to the protective cap member at the sides or top of hat (2)by any known means in the art, including but not limited to usingattached strings or straps to tie in a bow or cooperating snap means orVELCRO™ positioned at or near the sides or top of the hat.

H. Sizing Strap

In another alternative embodiment of the present invention, a sizingstrap (4) (e.g., a velcro sizing strap) may be positioned on the outersurface (8) of the cap member (2). The sizing strap may encircle the capmember (2) along its base. The sizing strap may be positioned alongeither the inner surface (16) or outer surface (8) of the cap member(2). The sizing strap may be extended or reduced in size by utilizing adouble strap sizing mechanism which could comprise but is not limited toVelcro. The sizing strap may extend from two narrow aperatures in theouter surface at the rear of hat (1). The sizing strap can bemanipulated by the wearer to best fit his/her head size by folding onestrap on top of the other or sliding one strap along the other andsecuring it with a fastening means, including but not limited to velcro,or snaps. The sizing strap may be made of a material that differs fromthe fabric of the protective hat (1) and may or may not be covered onthe exterior side of the strap with the same fabric covering the outersurface (8) of the cap member (2).

I. Protective Liner

In one alternative embodiment, the protective hat may comprise one ormore pads assembled in the form of a protective liner for use underneatha hat, or the lining may be worn by itself. The liner may be removablyattached to the inner surface of a hat, or it may be affixed thereto. Inanother embodiment, the protective hat comprises a non-removable liner.The liner may have size adjustment mechanisms in the form of straps ordrawcords which fasten with velcro, buttons or hook and loop closures,for example. The size adjustment mechanisms are at the rear or under thechin area of wearer's head. In one embodiment, the liner may comprise aseries of rows of pads, arranged in a manner so as to be at leastsubstantially uniformly distributed along the inner surface of the headprotector. In some embodiments, one or more pads may be entirelyseparate, that is, not in communication with other pads. In anotheralternative embodiment, some pads may be in communication with eachother and some may not. The liner may comprise a material whichsurrounds or connects the padding of the liner. Such material mayinclude, but is not limited to, and the interior of the protective hatmay comprise cotton, polyester (including Capilene®), lycra, spandex,nylon, fleece (including microdenier and PCR®), Gortex™, plastic,rubber, polyester fleece (Polartec® Power Dry®), Teflon™, linen, knits,woven and nonwoven fabrics, silk, rayon, mesh, leather, velvet, terry,cashmere, camel hair. Materials may be treated with water repellantfinishes such as Deluge (DWR) durable water repellant or H2No (R)(Highly Breathable) waterproof/breathable barrier, for example.

In another alternative embodiment there is a liner construction for thehead protector of the present invention. The liner may be in the form ofone or more pads filled with an appropriate medium. For example, thepads may be filled with liquids or air to provide comfort when worn,plus resistance against impact. The liner may also comprise a pluralityof pads. The pads may be at least partially filled with a medium, e.g.,fluid. The pads may be round, annular shape, or triangular shape. Thepads may be interconnected by a plurality of tubes. The tubes having arelatively small diameter interconnecting at least certain of the padsfor restricting the rate of flow of fluid between pads so as to make theliner relatively incompressible and thus afford protection to thewearer's head upon impact. The liner may also comprise any of the paddedmaterials, structures, assemblies, or composites described herein, suchas interconnected gel-foam, for example.

J. Safety Reflectors and Accessories

In another alternative embodiment, the head protector of the presentinvention may comprise one or more safety reflectors affixed thereon. Inone alternative embodiment, one or more safety reflectors may beincorporated or affixed on the outer surface of the head protector. Forexample, a snapable or otherwise removable safety reflectors may beattached to the outer surface of the head protector. Reflectors whichreflect light impinged upon them are well-known and used for manypurposes, primarily to alert on-coming motorists of the presence ofpedestrians, for example. In one alternative embodiment, one or moresafety reflectors may be affixed to the head protector of the presentinvention. The reflective material may be, for example, any one ofnumber of different commercially available reflective paints ormaterials, which will reflect light impinged upon it. The reflectivematerial may be affixed to the head protector by means of a snap,Velcro, clip or it may be imbedded in the out surface of the headprotector.

In another alternative embodiment, the head protector may have a strapor cord at the top to be used by doctors or physical/occupationaltherapists to assist an individual in holding up his/her head duringtherapeutic activities. The protective hat of the present invention mayalso comprise playful decorations or accessories (such as animal ears,antennae, tails, team logos, cartoon or storybook characters, etc.).Such hats may also have pieces of fabric which hang down from bottom ofthe rear of the hat to block the wearers neck from the sun. Preferably,these items would be soft or flexible such that they would not causeharm to the wearer upon impact.

The protective hat of the present invention may comprise one or morepockets or any other receptacle, cavity, pouch or opening to hold smallarticles. For example, the pocket may be adapted to hold anidentification card containing information about the wearer. This isimportant in the event the wearer gets disoriented or lost. Such iscommon among cognitively impaired individuals. The pockets may beadapted to hold other items, such as tissue. The pocket may comprisemeans for opening and closing the pockets, such means may include snaps,buttons, zippers or velcro.

K. Users of Protective Hat

The present invention may also be useful to protect the head of theinfirm or an aged individual who is in danger of falling while walkingor standing. For example, the protective hat of the present inventionmay protect the heads of individuals with medical conditions or physicaldisabilities rendering them prone to falls as a result of compromisedbalance or strength. Individuals suffering from strokes or those whohave recurring seizures, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's diseases orcertain neuropathological conditions would benefit from the protectivehat of the present invention because it would reduce their risk ofinjury. Moreover, elderly people or those who are weakened or experienceorientation problems due to the symptoms or treatments of otherillnesses would also find use for the protective hat of the presentinvention. With respect to individuals with illnesses or disabilities,the present invention would be a desirable change from the currentlyavailable protective devices or helmets which are more bulky,restrictive and unfashionable.

In addition, the protective hat of the present invention is suitable forindividuals suffering from sensory perception, balance, strength orcoordination problems. Included among these are the following illnessesand disabilities: cerebral palsy, spina bifida, hydrocephalus,cerebrovascular accidents, seizure disorders, (e.g. Epilepsy), sensoryintegration disorders, pervasive developmental disorders (autism, etc.),gait disorders, hemiplegia, diplegia, quadriplegia, athetosis, stroke,Parkinsons disease, traumatic brain injury, blindness and visualimpairment, multiple sclerosis, amputees, congenital conditions, spinalcord injuries and other neurological or neuromuscular disabilities,muscular dystrophy, Rett Syndrome, spinal muscular atrophy, AngelmanSyndrome, arthrogryposis multiplex congenita, Dandy-Walker Syndrome,mitochondrial myopathy, or severe Attention Deficit Disorder and anyother debilitating illnesses.

The protective hat of the present invention is also suitable forindividuals suffering from Neurologic Movement Disorders, including butnot limited to, Ataxia, Corticobasal, Degeneration, Dyskinesias(Paroxysmal), Dystonia (general, segmental, focal); includingblepharospasm, spasmodic torticollis (cervical dystonia), laryngealdystonia (spasmodic dysphonia), oromandibular dystonia, EssentialTremor, Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia, Huntington's Disease, MultipleSystem Atrophy, (Shy-Drager Syndrome), Myoclonus, Parkinson's Disease,Progressive Supranuclear Palsy, Restless Legs Syndrome, Rett Syndrome,and Spasticity—due to stroke, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, spinalcord or brain injury Sydenham's Chorea, Tardive Dyskinesia/Dystonia,TicsTourette's Syndrome, and Wilson Disease.

Thus, the protective hat of the present invention may be utilized by theabove-mentioned individuals to reduce the risk of head injury during afall and to alleviate the their fear of falling while conducting dailyactivities. The present invention may also provide these individuals anenhanced sense of confidence and motivation to conduct daily activitiesdue to the protective nature of the present invention.

L. Disabilities/Teaching Device

An article in the Southern Medical Journal entitled “Protective Helmetsfor Children with Special Health Care Needs” by Dr. Raphael Sneed andChristine Stencel (May 2001 vol. 94, No. 5) discusses the need forprotective helmets for medical purposes. The article discusses howhelmets are currently used for children who require protection from selfmultilation and as orthotic devices for motor impaired children who needassistance performing normal activities. The article states that thereis little research in the medical literature with regard to the need forhelmets for medical purposes. Based upon informal research in the formof interviews with medical professionals, the article speaks to the needfor protective helmets for medical reasons such as seizures(particularly the atonic type), unsafe gait (e.g. cerebral palsy), braininjury, mental retardation, visual impairments, impaired coordinationand cranial defects, among others.

The article raise the consideration of possible adverse psychological oremotional consequences for patients who are prescribed helmets formedical purposes because of the fact that current helmets prescribed formedical purposes are “ugly headgear” and invite the stigma of an“institutionalizing” apparatus. In addition, a small study of tenchildren who wore custom made helmets for cranial defects because theywere at risk for secondary brain trauma revealed that patientscomplained primarily about the heat and odor caused by the lack ofventilation.

The head protector of the present invention is designed to have anattractive appearance in that it looks like an everyday hat as opposedto a medical or orthopedic device for a person with disabilities. Itdiffers from existing protective helmets in that it has a soft exteriormade of a variety of fabrics and materials, for example. Further, theconstruction of the head protector allows for open spaces in certainareas of the head protector (e.g. protective lining) to ensureventilation. The head protector may also use fabrics and materialscurrently utilized in the construction of sports and outdoor apparelwhich have been created to allow heat and perspiration out and fresh airto enter. The present invention also has a removable protective liningso that it can be worn under multiple hats in a variety of social and/ortherapeutic settings.

Further, children or adults who are disabled, developmentally delayed orwho suffer from neuro motor or muscular/skeletal impairments often havedifficulty standing and/or walking independently, or accomplishing anyother everyday activity. These people often require physical andoccupational therapy. Physical therapy involves activities designed toincrease, restore or maintain an individual's range of motion, physicalstrength, flexibility, coordination, balance and endurance. Physicaltherapists recommend assistive devices to prevent injury and promotesafe, independent physical activity.

The present invention may be suitable in an environment whereindividuals need head protection while performing physical therapy andeveryday activities. Occupational therapy helps people who arephysically, mentally, or developmentally disabled improve theirfunctioning in daily living and working environments. For example,disabled individuals learn how to bathe, prepare food, perform householdtasks and necessary activities at work. Occupational therapists instructindividuals with disabilities in the use of adaptive equipment whichenables them to perform a wider range of activities. Thus, theprotective hat of the present invention may be utilized as a tool toreduce risk of injury of an individual undergoing physical oroccupational therapy or performing everyday activities. As such, itallows for an increased level of concentration and motivation as well asan elevated sense of confidence for such therapies due to its protectivecharacteristics. For example, a physical or occupational therapist canwork more efficiently with a patient wearing the present invention as itcan allow for a sharper focus on the therapeutic activity as opposed toconcerns and efforts to prevent head injuries due to patient's illnessor disability. Patients in turn, may experience an enhanced sense ofconfidence and motivation due to the protective nature of the presentinvention.

Accordingly, the present invention may be used as directed to anapparatus for assisting an individual to assist an infant, small child,senior or a disabled person to learn to stand or to walk, or conduct anyother daily, routine activity. Such apparatus may comprise a protectivehat of the present invention. Also, the present invention is directed toa method of assisting an individual to assist a disabled individual tolearn to stand, or to walk or to conduct any other routine activity.Such method comprising the steps of placing a protective hat of thepresent invention on the head of the disabled person, while theindividual is assisting the disabled individual.

The present invention may be suitable for senior citizens. Many seniorsfear falling while conducting daily, routine activities. For goodreason. It has been reported that on third of seniors over 65 fall eachyear. Of those, 50% fall repeatedly. The fear of falling is both thecause of the falls and a consequent of falls. Consequently, seniorsbecome less mobile and more sedentary because they often have negativethoughts about falling. The protective hat of the present invention maybe utilized by seniors to reduce the risk of head injury during a falland to alleviate the fear of falling while they conduct dailyactivities. As such, the present invention would provide seniors anenhanced sense of confidence and motivation to conduct daily, routineactivities due to the protective nature of the present invention.

The present invention may also be adapted to protect an individual fromself mutilation injuries to the head. For example, it is known that someautistic children are prone to self mutilation activities such as headbanging. Some children with Attention Deficit Disorder are more prone toaccidents and injuries due to impulsivity and thus require moreprotection from falls and bangs against hard objects.

M. Work Environment

Further, the protective hat of the present invention may also be worn inwork environments where there is a risk of minor head injury due tobangs against people, debris or objects such as low hanging pipes ormachinery or falls due to slippery or obstructed walkways, for example.The present protective hat may used as an alternative to theconventional “hard-hat” made of solid plastic material. Hard-hats aretypically uncomfortable, and are not fashionable. In one alternativeembodiment, the present protective hat may comprise a soft, pliableouter surface comprising one or more pads described herein. In onealternative embodiment, the present protective hat may be worn in a workenvironment, including, but not limited to factories, warehouses,construction sites, repair sites, auto shops, garages, offices, gardensand other environments. In another alternative embodiment, the presentinvention may be wom in a low impact work environment where there is nosubstantial risk of severe head injury, e.g., life threatening headinjuries or severe head trauma, but there is a risk of minor headinjury, such as minor bumps or bangs.

While the present invention has been described in connection with theembodiments described herein, it will be understood that the presentinvention is capable of further modifications, and this application,including the appended claims, are intended to cover any variations,uses, or adaptations of the present invention following, in general, theprinciples of the present disclosures set forth herein and includingsuch departures from the present disclosures that come with known orcustomary practices in the art to which the invention pertains. Also,the invention may suitably comprise, consist of or consist essentiallyof the elements or steps described herein. Further, the inventiondescribed herein suitably may comprise or be practiced in the absence ofnay element or step which is not specifically disclosed herein. Further,one or more steps described herein may be performed simultaneously withanother step.

1. A protective hat in the form of a liner suitable for everyday wearduring non-sport activities by infants, small children, senior citizensor physically disabled adults, comprising: (i) one or more pads, saidpads being flexible, resilient and shock absorbent; (ii) an outermaterial surrounding or connecting the one or more pads; (iii) the oneor more pads comprising a medium adequate to protect the wearer's headfrom injury resulting from bumps, falls or slips during non-sportactivities; (iv) the liner, when worn, is adapted to be worn by aninfant, small child, senior citizen, or physically disabled adult, thephysically disabled adult having a medical condition, the symptoms ofwhich compromise the adult's balance or strength rendering the adultprone to falls when walking or standing; (v) the liner being soconstructed such that the liner, when worn, is adequate to protect thewearer's head from injury resulting from bumps, falls or slips whilestanding, crawling or walking during non-sport activities.
 2. Theprotective hat of claim 1, wherein the one or more pads comprises apadded sandwich, said sandwich further comprises an outer portion and aninner portion; the padded material of the outer portion is differentfrom that of the inner portion.
 3. The protective hat of claim 1,wherein the medium in the one or more pads comprises a silasticgelatinous material.
 4. The protective hat of claim 1, wherein themedium in the one or more pads comprises a gas.
 5. The protective hat ofclaim 1, wherein the medium one or more pads comprises air.
 6. Theprotective hat of claim 1, wherein the medium in the one or more padscomprises a liquid material.
 7. The protective hat of claim 1, whereinthe one or more pads comprise an aerogel.
 8. The protective hat of claim1, wherein the medium in the one or more pads comprises a silicaaerogel.
 9. The protective hat of claim 1, wherein the one or more padscomprises a foam material.
 10. The protective hat of claim 1, whereinthe one or more pads comprises a rubber material.